With a flying time of around 1.5hr from Manchester, there are not many better options for a weekend break than sophisticated, chic and gay Paris.

Fancying a very brief weekend jaunt, I decided to try the French capital city.

We stayed at the Le Pavillon De La Reine - a very impressive 17th century property, family-owned and run, and expertly hidden away from the hustle and bustle with its own beautiful grounds.

Situated in Paris’ oldest quarter- La Marais, just set back from the Place des Vosges - often referred to as the most beautiful square in the world - it is a postcard-pretty destination.

Le Pavillon De La Reine, Paris

With an inviting yet elegant courtyard, it was the perfect place to sit and bask in the summer sun, with a cold glass of Sancerre.

A lady busked nearby - singing opera in a small tunnel on the outskirts of the hotel’s perimeter. The delicate sound of her voice echoed and floated across the terrace area. It is a beautiful place, and is open to non residents, as well as guests.

The hotel has 56 elegantly-designed rooms and suites, all jaw-droppingly luxurious - we had a very elegant junior suite which boasted a bedroom above a functional living space, a mix of bold design and glamour.

The gorgeous sunshine meant the Juliette balcony, overlooking the courtyard, was a satisfying feature in the lovely 20 degree heat.

Read More

As I was staying only 24 hours in this super chic city, I wanted to squeeze as much as I could into my day.

So after an excellent buffet breakfast in the hotel lounge - the beautiful fresh baked pastries and bread were divine - I was ready to leave the peace and comfort of the hotel and its excellent staff, and go to discover more of Paris.

I was recommended a quirky vintage Citroen city tour offered by Parisi Tours. Quentin our guide came to collect us at our hotel in ‘Jacqueline’ a beautiful old Citroen 2cv. The car, he explained, was originally built in 1947, lovingly restored and now treasured and used for central Paris tours.

With champagne offered during the tour at the very reasonable cost of €30 a bottle, there is no more of an elegant yet fun way of seeing the city.

Read More

Winding our way through the side streets of this vibrant city, with Quentin cheerily chatting to locals and pedestrians between tales of the neighbourhoods we passed, it was amazing.

A mine of information on Paris, Quentin offered food and drink suggestions while driving to picturesque streets and neighbourhoods that only a local would know. There were plenty stops for pictures too along the way.

My only regret is that I only opted for a one hour tour - but with a flight to catch, my 24 hours in Paris had to come to an end...

The Terrace, Le Pavillon De La Reine, Paris

With tourist hot spots and the tourist big hitters that need to be seen to be appreciated - the sparkling Eiffel Tower on the hour at night was a beautiful sight to behold - right down to the picture-perfect neighbourhoods and winding streets, exquisite architecture, beautiful hotels and friendly relaxed cafe’s and pavement bars, the charm the city oozes is hard to beat.